The death toll from the Gambhira River bridge collapse in Gujarat’s Vadodara district climbed to 15 on Thursday, with three people still missing and rescue operations continuing for a second straight day. The incident occurred late on July 9, when a section of the decades-old bridge gave way, causing several vehicles to crash into the river below.
Rescue teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), along with local authorities, have been engaged in an intensive round-the-clock search operation.
“Three Still Missing, Two Vehicles Unaccounted For”
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, District Collector Dr. Anil Dhameliya confirmed the recovery of three additional bodies early Thursday, taking the total confirmed fatalities to 15. More than eight individuals have been rescued so far.
“The search is focused on a 4-kilometre downstream stretch. We are still trying to locate a missing car and an Eicher tempo believed to be submerged. The tempo is stuck in thick mud, making recovery difficult,” said Dr. Dhameliya.
He also noted that an empty chemical tanker remains dangerously suspended from the fractured edge of the bridge, posing risks to rescue efforts. Teams are working to stabilise the vehicle to prevent further accidents.
Chemical Tanker Raises Environmental Concerns
The presence of chemical cargo in one of the submerged vehicles has sparked environmental alarms. Officials from the Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) inspected the site and have initiated emergency protocols to monitor potential water contamination.
While no chemical leakage has been confirmed so far, authorities say parts of the remaining bridge may be demolished if deemed structurally unsafe.
Legal Case Registered; Probe Underway
The Padra Police have registered a case of accidental death following a complaint filed by Arjunsinh Madhavsinh Padhiar, a resident. A Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) team is on standby to examine structural debris, while statements from survivors and victims’ families are being recorded.
Authorities have promised a detailed investigation once the ongoing rescue and recovery operations are concluded.
Neglect and Warnings Ignored
The Gambhira Bridge, built over 40 years ago, had shown signs of deterioration, according to residents. Despite repeated appeals and memorandums urging authorities to conduct a safety audit, no preventive maintenance or action was reportedly taken.
Monsoon rains in the region are believed to have further weakened the already fragile structure, contributing to its sudden collapse. Eyewitnesses described a loud cracking sound moments before the section gave way.
The bridge served as a key connector between remote villages and commercial routes in the Saurashtra region, making it a critical transport link for both heavy and light vehicles.
Source: IANS
